Kim Atienza accepts priest's apology after depression remarks

TV personality and host Kim Atienza has accepted the public apology of Rev. Fr. Jowel Jomarsus Gatus, parish priest of San Jose, Pampanga, for the priest’s controversial homily comparing physical sickness to depression.

The discussion began when Fr. Gatus delivered a homily where he said, “Ang daming taong may sakit sa ospital lumalaban sa hamon ng buhay. Ikaw na pagkalusog-lusog nadedepress.”

Kim, 59, shared the statement on Facebook, emphasizing that depression is a real medical condition.

“Ang taong may mental illness ay lumalaban sa hamon ng buhay at ayaw magpa ospital dahil sa ganitong stigma, sa ganitong pag-iisip Father,” Kuya Kim wrote.

Following Kim’s statement, Fr. Gatus issued a lengthy public apology, acknowledging that his words may have unintentionally minimized the pain of those experiencing depression. He also expressed his sympathy to Kim and his family, particularly over the loss of his daughter.

In his message addressed to Kim, the priest said he reflected on his homily after realizing that it had caused pain.

“From the bottom of my heart, I am truly sorry. It was never my intention to hurt you or your family, nor was it my intention to discredit the experiences of those who suffer from depression. I realize now that my words may have sounded as if I was diminishing a pain that is very real,” Fr. Gatus wrote.

The priest explained that his intention was to encourage people to hold on to hope despite life’s struggles. He said he wanted to remind people to recognize the blessings in life and not allow suffering to have the final word. 

However, he acknowledged that depression is not something that can simply be overcome by choosing to be grateful or strong.

“It is a profound suffering that many carry silently. Those who experience it deserve compassion, understanding, prayer, and the support of people who will walk with them,” he said.

Fr. Gatus also offered condolences to Kim, saying he could not imagine the pain of losing a child. “My heart goes out to you and your family. Please know that you have my prayers and my deepest sympathy,” he wrote.

He added that he was sorry if his words reopened wounds or added to the burden of those affected by depression and suicide.

“I accept that while my intention was to inspire hope, the impact was different for you and for others who have lived through the tragedy of depression and suicide,” the priest said.

The priest also thanked Kim for reminding him of the importance of delivering messages with compassion and sensitivity, saying he would carry the lesson with him in his ministry.

On Saturday, July 25, Kim responded to Fr. Gatus’ apology through a Facebook post, saying he accepted the priest’s message and appreciated the conversation that followed.

“Dearest Fr. Jowel Jomarsus P. Gatus. Thank you so much for the post and your apology. It is well taken,” Kim wrote.

Kim said the exchange opened an important discussion about mental health awareness and how conversations like these can help save lives.

“I am sorry as well that some took it personally because they themselves are depressed or have lost loved ones because of depression. I know you mean well. Take care Father and all the best,” he added.